You are here

ASP Interns

We are glad that you are interested in serving with UrbanPromise Honduras! Here you will find more information about life in Copán Ruinas and the After School Program (ASP) internship experience with UPH. Interns will primarily serve as an assistant to the After School Program Directors. You will work alongside the Director and Assistant Director in the development of curriculum, planning activities, buying supplies and then running the operations at the ASP.

Your mornings will be spent in preparation for the day, connecting with staff, and planning. Your afternoons will be spent on-site directing and supervising the operations at camp. Interns generally put in 3-4 hours before lunch and 4-5 hours after lunch. Along with your work in the After School program you will have many opportunities to continue building relationships with children, youth and their families. Examples might include having dinner with families, youth nights, or special field trips with the kids.

Interns are also able to use the morning time for Spanish classes in the case that more Spanish instruction is needed. If your Spanish competency is minimal then it is advisable to take Spanish classes during your stay. UPH can help arrange Spanish classes through a local Spanish Language School.

ASP Intern F.A.Q.

1. What is the mission and vision of UrbanPromise Honduras (UPH)?

Mission: to inspire the children and youth of Honduras to reach their potential by equipping them with the skills necessary for life management, academic achievement, spiritual growth and leadership rooted in the Christian faith.Vision: that the children and youth of Honduras will live full lives and develop into strong leaders that will bring about positive change in their communities and around the world.

2. Is my time flexible? - Will I be able to spend time away from work, traveling, visiting friends, etc.?

No, your time does not allow for much flexibility. We essentially view our interns as unpaid staff. Therefore we ask that our interns work the same full-time hours as staff and receive the same vacation days as staff. Obviously we do not want our interns to burnout just as we do not want staff to burnout, so with proper communication we can make necessary adjustments.

3. What fees do I pay as an intern? What will I receive?

There is an initial $25 application fee/donation. Please note that applications will not be revised until payment is confirmed.
We also ask interns to contribute $25 for each month of their time serving with UrbanPromise Honduras. This covers bi-monthly “coffee & convo” intern meetings (where we discuss personal goals, issues and study the Bible & supplementary readings), orientation and materials, free internet and celebration dinners with UPH staff. At UPH, interns become part of the team. There is no “us” and “them” in reference to staff and interns. We all serve alongside each other, working, planning and moving in the direction of our common vision. Interning with UrbanPromise Honduras for an extended period of time can be a great opportunity for gap year students or anyone seeking personal development in a cross-cultural setting. The personal development of our intern team is important and a goal of the Intern Director.

4. How much does it cost to live in Copán Ruinas?

Living styles vary so I can discuss the specifics of costs with you further. For a rough estimate, depending on how lavish or frugal the lifestyle, you will spend between $100-300 on food/month and $150-250 on accommodation/month.

5. Can UPH assist me in finding accommodation?

Yes, UPH will assist in finding your accommodation. Before your arrival we will connect with you and secure accommodation based on your preferences and budget. Interns will have the option of individual apartments, hotel or home stays.

6. What level of Spanish does the intern need to have before arriving?

We accept interns of all Spanish levels. That being said, our programs are all directed in Spanish. Therefore if your Spanish is beginner or low-level then your attitude must be one of learning, failing and overcoming challenges. The first month with such language barriers will be very difficult but we have hosted long-term interns who began with no Spanish experience but were conversational after 4-8 weeks. If your Spanish competency is minimal then is advisable to take Spanish classes during your stay. UPH can help arrange Spanish classes through Guacamaya Spanish Language School.

7. What is the minimum time commitment for interns?

Interns must make a commitment of at least 8 weeks. The longer your stay, the more you will feel part of the UPH team and will be able to nurture and build deep relationships with the children and families in the community. [Disclaimer: if you cannot commit to 8 weeks but still deeply desire to volunteer please also get in touch and it may be possible to apply through our Volunteer stream.]

8. Do I need a specific skill set to work with UPH?

You must love children and youth, and have a servant’s heart.

9. Are there age limitations?

No.

10. What is the application process?

Contact me via email at hugh.uphonduras@gmail.com and forward me your résumé/CV. Please also fill out the online form via the link above and pay the $25 application fee via our Donate Page on the website. Upon successful review of your application plus successful reference and background checks you will be invited to a Skype Interview. Following a successful interview you will receive acceptance to become part of the UPH team as unpaid staff! I will be in contact with you throughout this application process in hopes of making it as smooth and simple as possible. I am happy to answer any questions you may have.